From Aspiration to Optometry: Serving My Appalachian Community

As an undergraduate, I came across a poster for a summer camp that offered a glimpse into student life at the University of Pikeville-Kentucky College of Optometry (KYCO). At the time, I was uncertain about my next steps after graduation, so I decided to take a leap of faith and attend. The three days of hands-on demonstrations, meeting faculty members, and connecting with other prospective students completely transformed my perspective, and I realized I could build a future in this field. I've been obsessed with optometry ever since.  
 
Finding Community through Optometry  
During my first year of optometry school so far, I’ve encountered some challenges that have taught me the value of asking for help and embracing support. I come from a tight-knit community at home, so I’m thankful to have found a sense of belonging with my classmates. Rather than being competitive, we uplift and support each other in our shared goal of becoming successful Doctors of Optometry. 
 
The sense of camaraderie I’ve found at KYCO extends far beyond our student body—it’s woven into the larger optometric community. VSP has been a key part of this network, consistently supporting the next generation of optometrists through scholarships, mentorship, and more. I’ve personally experienced this support as the recipient of the 2024 VSP Vision of Hope Scholarship, which is awarded to an incoming KYCO student from the Appalachian region who is dedicated to serving underserved populations. Receiving this scholarship reaffirms my commitment to building connections with my future patients and bringing eye care to the areas that need it most. 
 
My Commitment to the Appalachian Region 
After graduation, my goal is to return to my Appalachian community to practice optometry. Before optometry school, I didn’t fully realize that my own community is among those most in need of eye care. This realization breaks my heart because healthcare disparities, particularly related to diabetes and diabetic retinopathy, have affected people who I’ve known all my life. When I graduate, it will be my turn to give back to the community that has always been there for me, helping them get access to the eye care they need.  
 
I believe a good doctor can change people's lives. You can be the most well-equipped, intelligent doctor in the world, but if you're not willing to connect with your patients, they’re not going to have trust in you. This is especially true in my hometown in the Appalachian community, where connection means so much. As Eye See It, building relationships with my patients is how I’m going to make my family proud and be an asset to the community I’m proud to call home.